Shirkey is in his second, two-year term in office and originally planned to seek reelection for a final term in the 2014 November election.

Unlike the house, senate terms are four years.

Some wondered if state Rep. Earl Poleski would take a stab at the upper house. Poleski was not immediately available for comment, but said on his Facebook page he will not face Shirkey.

“Despite an opportunity to run for a newly-open state senate seat, my plans have not changed and I will remain a candidate for state representative,” Poleski wrote. “I would like to express sincere appreciation to my friends, colleagues, and residents throughout Jackson County for their encouragement, and most importantly, for their continued support.”